Clinical Insight on Semaglutide for Chronic Weight Management in Adults: Patient Selection and Special Considerations

Losses of 5-10% or more of initial body weight are associated with improvements in obesity-related comorbidities. However, attaining and sustaining this level of weight loss is challenging. The novel anti-obesity medication semaglutide 2.4 mg injected subcutaneously once weekly as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and physical activity helps patients achieve average losses of 9.6-17.4% of initial body weight at week 68, as well as improvements in cardiometabolic and psychosocial indices. Despite these average benefits, prescribers should carefully assess the suitability of patients for this medication. In this paper, we discuss considerations for the selection of individuals who are candidates for semaglutide and special considerations related to the use of this medication. These include its efficacy and safety, as well as its contraindications, potential adverse effects, management of comorbidities and drug interactions, insurance coverage and cost, and patient preferences.

Automated summary

Losing 5-10% or more of initial body weight can improve obesity-related comorbidities, but achieving and maintaining this weight loss level is challenging. The novel anti-obesity medication semaglutide, when used as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and physical activity, helps patients achieve average weight losses of 9.6-17.4% of initial body weight at week 68 and improves cardiometabolic and psychosocial indices. Factors to consider for the selection and use of this medication include efficacy, safety, contraindications, adverse effects, comorbidity management, drug interactions, insurance coverage and cost, and patient preferences.